Online Reporter
In the Spotlight this week is Bhila (Patriarch WJ Manyabi), a talented Afro-pop musician known for songs such as Wamuhle, Emaweni and GP. The musician, who hails from Bulawayo, has built a strong reputation through his soulful vocals and energetic live performances, highlighted by a sold-out debut solo concert at the Bulawayo Theatre in 2025. In the same year, he won a Bulawayo Arts Award for Outstanding Alternative Music.
This year, Bhila performed at the renowned Untitled Basement in Johannesburg, where he shared the stage with
South African artiste Phila Dlozi.
Below is the interview with Bhila.
Q. How did you first get into music, and what sparked your passion for Afro-pop?
A. My music career officially started in 2023, although I believe I was born a musician. I felt many stories needed to
be told, and no one was fully occupying that space. So, while I only entered the industry professionally in 2023, music has always been part of who I am.
Q. Selling out your first solo concert at the Bulawayo Theatre in 2025 was a major milestone. What was the experience like, and how did it feel to receive that level of support from your fans?
A. It felt motivating and rewarding to see so many people believing in my craft. The support showed me that there is growth in my music and that I have a product that is ready for the market.
Q. What’s been the most memorable moment in your music career so far?
A. Performing at the Untitled Basement in South Africa has been one of the major highlights of my career this year. It felt good performing for a new audience in such a competitive music market. Being allowed to perform at such a legendary venue meant a lot to me and showed me that my music is reaching new spaces.
Q. Your music often blends traditional Zimbabwean styles with modern pop elements. How do you balance staying true to your roots while still innovating and experimenting with new sounds?
A. My music is very intentional. The aim is to accommodate all age groups, which is why I fuse traditional and modern elements in my sound.
Q. What challenges have you faced in the music industry, and how did you overcome them?
A. The biggest challenge is funding. Music is very expensive and highly competitive. Without enough budget, it becomes difficult to stay consistent or produce high-quality content that can compete at a higher level.
Q. What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
A. Trust yourself first and find ways to fund your career.
Q. Looking back on your journey, is there anything you would have done differently, or any advice you would give to your younger self?
A. I’m happy with where I am. I started in 2023 and have built a name for myself, which is a significant achievement.
